Following the monumental launch of the Historical Arabic Dictionary on September 21, 2024, the project is set to evolve into the Historical Dictionary GPT, an innovative platform that promises to revolutionize how Arabic language resources are accessed and utilized. The new platform, which will be launched in 2025, will provide users with access to over 20 million Arabic words across 127 volumes and enable dynamic, interactive engagement similar to ChatGPT.
This project, which was initially announced in October 2024, marks a significant advancement in the use of artificial intelligence for language learning and resource accessibility. According to Muhammad Hassan Khalaf, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Arabic Language Academy, the Historical Dictionary GPT is more than just a dictionary. “It is an Arab initiative that transcends borders, aimed at enriching and promoting Arabic culture and language. It will showcase our linguistic heritage and make it accessible to everyone,” Khalaf stated.
Reviving Arabic Heritage through Technology
The initiative not only focuses on language preservation but also seeks to offer new terminologies related to thought, culture, and law, highlighting the richness of Arab culture for global audiences. Khalaf emphasized that the dictionary will help correct misconceptions about the Arabic language and foster cultural exchange.
Dr. Mohamed Safi Al Mosteghanemi, Secretary General of the Academy and Executive Director of the Project, pointed out the importance of integrating modern technology into language learning, particularly for younger generations. “Our children are very interested in artificial intelligence,” Al Mosteghanemi said, recognizing the need to adapt language resources to the digital age.
A Collaborative Effort to Preserve Arabic Language History
The Historical Arabic Dictionary, which began development in 2017, was a collaborative effort involving over 780 researchers, linguists, and experts. This massive undertaking aimed to not only compile a vast array of words but also to provide context on the evolution of Arabic words, their meanings, and cultural significance. Khalaf explained that what sets this historical dictionary apart is its ability to offer a deeper understanding of language evolution, rather than simply providing a list of words.
Despite facing challenges, including the global pandemic, the project team completed this ambitious task in just seven years—a feat typically requiring decades. Professor Dr. Mohammad Al-Saoudi, General Rapporteur of the Jordanian team, noted that the project grew from an initial team of 200 experts to a dedicated group that overcame numerous obstacles through collaboration and innovation.
Sharjah’s Cultural Milestone
The completion of the 127-volume Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language was officially announced by Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, on September 21, 2024. This achievement adds to Sharjah’s growing list of accomplishments in the fields of culture, literature, and Arabic language preservation, benefiting both Arab and Islamic communities worldwide.
With the upcoming launch of the Historical Dictionary GPT, the project represents a significant leap forward in making Arabic language resources accessible to a global audience, ensuring the preservation and promotion of Arabic heritage through cutting-edge technology.
